Application, News
|April 6, 2025

With version 2.0 of the Data Spaces Blueprint, the Data Space Support Centre (DSSC) presents a comprehensively updated and practice-oriented reference architecture for building sovereign data spaces. This new edition refines key technical and organizational elements, emphasizes practical applicability, and promotes interoperability across various data space initiatives.

Multi-layered Architecture and Modular Components

At the core of Blueprint v2.0 is a multi-layered architecture model that clearly separates logical, functional, and technical levels. Each layer is characterized by defined roles, interactions, and requirements—distinguishing between data providers, consumers, service providers, intermediaries, and orchestrators.

A major improvement over version 1.0 is the expanded component model. It provides a detailed description of the functionalities needed to ensure interoperability and data sovereignty, including:

  • Identity & Access Management (including federated identities)

  • Usage Control & Policy Enforcement

  • Data Exchange & Interoperability Services

  • Trust Frameworks and Compliance Mechanisms

  • Service Registries and Metadata Management

These components are now clearly and standards-aligned defined, making real-world implementation and comparison easier.

Governance Structures and Trust Models

Another key focus of the new version is governance and trust. The blueprint outlines robust approaches to transparently and verifiably organize roles, access rights, and rules within data spaces. This also includes standardized processes for onboarding, policy management, and technical enforcement of usage conditions—particularly through usage control mechanisms.

Key Enhancements Compared to Version 1.0

In comparison to the initial version, Blueprint v2.0 offers several notable advancements:

  • Greater Modularity: The separation of logical functions from implementation enables more flexible technical solutions.

  • Stronger Practical Relevance: Insights from real-world projects (e.g., in mobility, manufacturing, or healthcare) have been incorporated.

  • Component Overview: For the first time, the blueprint includes a tabular overview of all core functions along with their interface requirements.

  • Alignment with European Frameworks: The reference architecture is aligned with Gaia-X, IDSA, EDC, and EDIB.

Conclusion

The Data Spaces Blueprint v2.0 provides a robust and forward-looking foundation for designing technically sovereign and interoperable data spaces. For professionals in architecture, IT, and data strategy, it serves as a valuable tool for structuring implementation projects and assessing existing systems.